5 Simple Steps on Adjusting Handlebars in a 2005 Street Glide

Image of a 2005 Street Glide with handlebars

Customizing your 2005 Street Glide motorcycle can elevate your riding experience to new heights. One crucial adjustment is modifying the handlebars to suit your posture and preferences. Whether you’re seeking a more upright position for enhanced comfort or a sportier, forward-leaning stance, adjusting the handlebars is a simple task that can yield significant benefits. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of handlebar adjustment, providing step-by-step instructions and expert guidance to help you achieve the perfect riding position for your Street Glide.

Before commencing the adjustment process, it’s essential to gather the necessary tools. You’ll need a set of Allen keys or torx bits, a Phillips head screwdriver, and possibly a wrench, depending on the handlebar mount you have. Additionally, having a friend or assistant to assist with holding the handlebars in place can make the process smoother. Begin by loosening the bolts located on the handlebar clamps, which secure the handlebars to the triple tree. Once the bolts are loosened, you can carefully slide the handlebars forward or backward to adjust the reach. If you’re unsure about the optimal position, start with small adjustments and gradually fine-tune the placement until you find the sweet spot that feels most comfortable and natural.

After adjusting the reach, it’s time to focus on the handlebar height. The handlebars on a 2005 Street Glide are typically mounted on risers, which allow for vertical adjustment. Loosen the bolts that secure the risers to the triple tree, and carefully raise or lower the handlebars to achieve the desired height. Again, it’s advisable to proceed with gradual adjustments and take test rides in between to assess the changes. Once you’re satisfied with the height and reach of the handlebars, securely tighten all the bolts and clamps. Double-check the tightness of all fasteners to ensure the handlebars are firmly mounted in place.

Safety First

Before you start working on your handlebars, it’s important to take some safety precautions. First, make sure that your bike is parked on a level surface and that the handlebars are turned to the straight-ahead position. Next, disconnect the battery to prevent any electrical shocks. Finally, put on a pair of safety glasses to protect your eyes from any flying debris.

Adjusting the Handlebar Height

The handlebar height can be adjusted by loosening the four bolts that hold the handlebar clamps in place. Once the bolts are loose, you can slide the handlebars up or down to the desired height. Once you have the handlebars at the desired height, tighten the bolts back up.

When adjusting the handlebar height, it’s important to keep in mind that the handlebars should be at a height that is comfortable for you to reach. If the handlebars are too high, you may have to reach too far to grip them, which can lead to fatigue and discomfort. If the handlebars are too low, you may have to hunch over to reach them, which can also lead to fatigue and discomfort.

Here’s a table with some general handlebar height recommendations based on your height:

Height Handlebar Height
5’0″ – 5’6″ 10″ – 12″
5’7″ – 6’0″ 12″ – 14″
6’1″ – 6’4″ 14″ – 16″
6’5″ and above 16″ and above

Of course, these are just general recommendations. The best way to determine the ideal handlebar height for you is to experiment and find what feels most comfortable.

Adjusting the Handlebar Position

Adjusting the handlebars on your 2005 Street Glide can improve comfort, ergonomics, and your riding experience. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Gather Tools

  • Metric Allen wrench (6mm and 8mm)
  • Socket wrench (9/16-inch)
  • Torque wrench

2. Loosen Top Clamps

Locate the top clamps on the handlebars. Using a 6mm Allen wrench, loosen the two bolts securing each clamp.

3. Adjust Handlebar Position

Grab the handlebars and move them to your desired position. Ensure they are level and centered.

4. Tighten Clamps and Risers

a. Tighten Clamps

Tighten the top clamp bolts evenly using an 8mm Allen wrench.
**Torque to 100 lb-ft.**

b. Tighten Risers

Using a 9/16-inch socket wrench, tighten the four riser bolts.
**Torque to 70 lb-ft.**

5. Double-Check

Double-check all bolts to ensure they are adequately tightened. Ensure the handlebars are secure and move smoothly.

6. Reinstall Cables and Lines

Reinstall any cables or lines that may have been disconnected during the adjustment process.

Adjusting the Throttle Cables

After you have rerouted your throttle cables, you will need to adjust them to ensure proper operation. This can be done by following these steps:

  1. Loosen the locknut on the throttle cable bracket.
  2. Adjust the cable adjuster nut until there is 1/8 inch of play in the throttle when the handlebars are turned all the way to the left and right.
  3. Tighten the locknut.
  4. Test the throttle to ensure that it is operating smoothly.
  5. If necessary, repeat steps 2 and 3 until the throttle is adjusted correctly.
  6. Check the throttle cable routing to ensure that it is not binding or rubbing against any other components.
  7. Secure the throttle cables using cable ties or other appropriate fasteners.
Cable Length Adjustment
Too short The throttle will not open fully.
Too long The throttle will open too far and the engine will race.
Correct The throttle will open and close smoothly, and the engine will idle at the correct speed.

How To Adjust Your Handlebars In A 2005 Street Glide

To adjust the handlebars on a 2005 Street Glide, you will need the following tools:

  • Allen wrench set
  • Socket wrench set
  • Torque wrench

1. Loosen the four Allen bolts that hold the handlebar clamps in place.
2. Loosen the two socket bolts that hold the risers to the triple tree.
3. Adjust the handlebars to the desired position.
4. Tighten the Allen bolts that hold the handlebar clamps in place.
5. Tighten the socket bolts that hold the risers to the triple tree.

People Also Ask

How do I remove the handlebars from a 2005 Street Glide?

To remove the handlebars from a 2005 Street Glide, you will need to:

  1. Loosen the four Allen bolts that hold the handlebar clamps in place.
  2. Disconnect the electrical wires that are connected to the handlebars.
  3. Pull the handlebars straight up and off of the risers.

How do I install new handlebars on a 2005 Street Glide?

To install new handlebars on a 2005 Street Glide, you will need to:

  1. Place the new handlebars onto the risers.
  2. Connect the electrical wires to the handlebars.
  3. Tighten the four Allen bolts that hold the handlebar clamps in place.

How do I adjust the handlebars on a 2005 Street Glide to fit me?

To adjust the handlebars on a 2005 Street Glide to fit you, you will need to:

  1. Sit on the bike in a comfortable riding position.
  2. Reach forward and grab the handlebars.
  3. Adjust the handlebars up or down until your wrists are in a neutral position.
  4. Tighten the Allen bolts that hold the handlebar clamps in place.